AME Zion University

The A.M.E. Zion University commenced in 1983 with the founding of the A.M.E. Zion School of Business, attached to the A.M.E. Zion Academy. In 1987, the A.M.E. Zion Community College was established, offering Associate Degree in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Administration, Liberal Arts, Computer Science and Business as well as Diploma in Trauma Counseling. In 1996, by an Act of the National Legislature, the A.M.E. Zion University was established with Reverend Frederick Umoja, serving as its first President. In January 1999, the Rev. Dr. Frank K. M. Zormelo was inducted as the second president of the University. In August 2001, a year and a half later, the Reverend Dr. Mulbah B. Gray, Sr. was appointed the third president. He is the first native Liberian to become president of the A.M.E. Zion University. Prior to his appointment, he served as Vice President for Administration. The University, which is operated by the A.M.E. Zion Church, presently has six (6) Colleges; namely, Wilfred E. Clarke College of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Administration, Andrew Cartwright College of Business and Public Administration and the Reuben L. Speaks College of Liberal Arts, Warren M.Brown College of Divinity, College of General Studies and Alicia Smith- Lartey College of Education. The University has enrolled over 6000 students and graduated 1500 students since its establishment. The A.M.E. Zion University has a great deal of challenges and opportunities ahead in the reconstruction of a new Liberia in the 21st century. It hopes to expand and develop new programs to meet the needs of the nation. The University is committed to responding adequately to the national need for high manpower development that will spearhead and also guarantee Liberia's sustainable development by strengthening and expanding its academic programs; and making them relevant to meet the demands of the third millennium. The A.M.E Zion Church owns 100 acres of land donated by the late Bishop and Mrs. Solomon D. Lartey at Po-River, Vincent Town, Bomi County. This piece of legacy has buildings that were heavily looted and damaged during the civil crisis. It is hoped that this site will be the permanent location of the University.